There are endless possibilities for children's Christmas books, but you have to search a bit to find a good Christmas read for adults. Here are 10 GREAT Christmas books an adult can cozy up with this holiday season while avoiding shopping, parking lots and Santas that smell like scotch.
WINTER books are like the season, slow, heavy and almost never ending. They're the kind of books with some heft that more often than not have won some sort of literary award. The one time this doesn't hold true is in the winter month of December.
A time when even the most austere of readers has been known to bundle under the covers with a hot chocolate, a shortbread cookie and secretly crack open a Christmas romance novel.
Yup, romance novels. The literary world's most sneezed upon genre. It's also the most profitable. Romance novels make more money for the publishing world than any other books - by a lot.
Book Genres by Earnings
- Romance & Erotica - $1.44 billion dollars
- Crime & Mystery - $728.2 million
- Religious & Inspirational - $720 million
Now that I've sort of legitimized romance novels I will now confess that although I've never read a "regular" romance novel, I had a period in my life when I was absolutely obsessed with Christmas themed romance novels. Which I read of course around Christmas. When I was in University a friend and I would start buying these books around the month of October and we'd read them nonstop until Christmas.
I said it was a way to avoid writing papers and nothing more. I was a University student for God's sake. I had better literary tastes than this. But I didn't. I liked those books. I actually liked them.
They just made me feel cozy, happy, relaxed ... all the things one normally doesn't feel while trying to avoid writing 2,000 word papers. Cozy, happy and relaxed are all the things we all want to feel 100% of the time which probably explains why romance is indeed the most read genre in the world.
So while they aren't normally what I reach for when I'm looking for a book I've included a couple of romance books on this list of Christmas novels.
18 Great Christmas Reads for Adults
The Best Christmas Books
Something for everyone to cozy up with this holiday season no matter what your reading taste. Humour, mystery, romance and literary fiction.
Letters From Father Christmas
If you're a Tolkien fan or you know of a Tolkien fan this is the book for you. If you're also a Christmas fan this collection of letters might actually prompt you to spontaneously combust and become invisible from excitement.
The Deal of a Lifetime - Feel good
I'd also like to recommend if you haven't read his novel A Man Called Ove that you do it now. Well, after you read this Christmas one I mean.
Visions of Sugar Plums - Humour/Romance
This is a Christmas/Crime/Humour novel with tiny bit of romance. I know! You didn't think such a thing existed. But it does! Janet Evanovich is my go to writer when I just want something easyyyy and guaranteed entertaining.
Redbird Christmas - Feel Good
Fannie Flagg is a storyteller. Plain and simple. She cultivates complex, quirky characters grown out of small town soil. You don't just read a Fannie Flagg novel, you feel like you live it with every turn of the page.
A Treasury of African American Christmas Stories
A curated collection that reflects the Christmas experiences of everyday African Americans in the years 1880 - 1953.
Little Women - Literary Fiction
Louisa May Alcott begrudgingly wrote Little Women at the demand of her publisher. After she finished the first 12 chapters they both agreed it was dull. But her publisher's niece loved it, so they decided they might as well finish it. And history was made.
A Christmas Carol - Literary Fiction
I'm pretty sure I don't have to tell you anything about this book that you don't already know. It's the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and how on Christmas Eve he gets visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. You've seen the movie, now read the book. We all know the book is always better.
Mr. Dickens and His Carol
The fictional tale of the story behind Charle's Dickens classic A Christmas Carol and how he came to write it. (with historically accurate details of Dickens' actual life.)
Hercule Poirot's Christmas - Mystery
Mystery fans unite. Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot in a classic English Christmas setting. Just add a blanket, fireplace and hot toddy.
Holidays on Ice - Humour
David Sedaris is the funniest human on Earth. Period. This collection of short stories proves it.
A Christmas Memory - Classic
Just his description of going out to buy fruitcake ingredients makes the book worth it. 91% of readers give A Christmas Memory a 5 out of 5 star rating.
A Cowboy's Christmas - Romance
I'm not a romance reader but I *do* love every single awful Hallmark Christmas movies. If you do too AND you like romance, then this book will be the greatest gift you can give yourself.
The Christmas Mystery - Mystery
Want to read a Christmas book but don't have time? THIS is the one for you. The Christmas Mystery is a quick 160 pages you can speed through on a snowy weekend.
An Irish Christmas Feast - Short stories
Another option if you're short on reading time. A collection of Irish Christmas short stories. Get your whiskey glass polished up and ready.
The Greatest Gift: A Christmas Tale
From the Amazon description:
"Unable at first to find a publisher for his evocative tale about a man named George Pratt who ponders suicide until he receives an opportunity to see what the world would be like without him, Stern ultimately published the story in a small pamphlet and sent it out as his 1943 Christmas card. One of those 200 cards found its way into the hands of Frank Capra, who shared it with Jimmy Stewart, and the film that resulted became the holiday tradition we cherish today."
Trading Christmas - Romance/Feel Good
Yet another Hallmark movie type book. In fact, this book was actually made into a Hallmark movie (of the same name)!
Last Christmas in Paris - Historical Romance
This wouldn't have made my list but it gets such good reviews that I thought I had better add this in. I love Christmas novels as well as war novels, I just wasn't all that keen on a combination of the two for some reason. I also don't like my foods touching on my dinner plate sooooo that could account for my initial opposition, lol.
My personal favourites on this list are Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris which is absolutely hysterical and A Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flagg because she's such a good storyteller.
Bonus Holiday books! Jewish, gay, & lesbian selections.
Jewish Holiday book
The Latke Who Couldn't Stop Screaming How could a book titled The Latke Who Couldn't Stop Screaming be anything but fantastic? A Lemony Snicket book.
Gay Holiday Book
Small Town Christmas Gay romance Christmas novels don't seem to differ from straight ones very much. This one focuses on a small town sheriff who tries to hide his gay truth from coming out before an election. Enter, the highly successful businessman, who wanders into town for a business deal during the holiday season.
Lesbian Holiday Book
A Swedish Christmas Fairytale The premise of this sounds like a PERFECT Christmas book. Excerpt from Amazon - "Amber Tate is about to lose her job at a London publishing house. And it’s nearly Christmas. Her boss gives her one last chance. Sadly, it’s the impossible task of obtaining the rights to the popular Lund Collection of fairy tales. The rights to the fairy tales are held by the author’s granddaughter, Emilia Lund, who lives a reclusive life in Sweden and has steadfastly refused to talk to anyone about the rights for the last several years. However, in order to convince her one and only friend that she can be sociable, Emilia agrees to invite Amber - under strict conditions - to the cosy setting of wintry Sweden.
There's only a 1-2 month long window where this kind of book will feel magical. Get that book, go to bed early with a mug of hot chocolate, a plate of shortbread cookies and settle into some holiday rest, relaxation and reading. It's not just for University students trying to avoid writing papers.
It's for anyone trying to avoid anything.
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Grammy
I just read A Redbird Christmas last year and loved it. I feel the same about all of Fannie Flagg's books. Little Women for the first time when I was ten, and several more times over the years because, of course. I'll check out one or two of your recommendations this year.
For those who think they can't find time for a whole novel, look to some great short stories about Christmas. My all-time favorite is O Henry's "Gift of the Magi" -- I read it to my young son the first time in the late '60s and it became an annual tradition to read that aloud. I have read "Gift of the Magi" several years now to my grandson, and this year I'm going to have him read it aloud to me. I think it even qualifies as the "romance" genre, too, but not so yucky that little boys don't love it.
Vikki
My almost-favorite author is Agatha Christie. (my #1 Favorite is Margery Allingham.) I keep Christie's books and read them again after about 10 years. Yes, I remember who-dunnit but you can't beat her for characterizations and descriptions of the life and times when these were written. My favorite for humor is anything by Bill Bryson.
Librarian Nancy
Loved Fannie Flagg's Redbird Christmas. Here are a few others - the first two are recently published:
Christmas Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella (chick lit - most recent in Kinsella's Shopaholic series)
A Noel Killing by M. L. Longworth (holiday mystery set in Provence)
In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash by Jean Shepherd (the essay collection that the movie A Christmas Story is based on)
Envious Casca by Georgette Heyer (holiday murder and mayhem at an English country house)
When Elves Attack by Tim Dorsey (twisted Florida humor/adventure)
Musette
I was just going to mention Envious Casca! While Georgette Heyer's Regency books are my absolute favorites, there's something weird and delightful about her English Country House mysteries (No Wind of Blame is hysterical!!)
Margot Hayes
PLEASE don't omit Stuart McLean from your list. If you want sidesplitting Christmas stories, his are the best. They are available as audio books and on CD as well. Try not to listen to them on the road as it is difficult to drive when doubled over, crying with laughter, and attempting to not piddle on the car's seat.
Dave R
Yes. Yes. A thousand times yes to David Sedaris. He is my all-time favourite author. I've read everything he's written that I'm aware exists and have howled with laughter at so many of his stories. If you want a good laugh go to youtube and look up David Sedaris Stadium Pal David Letterman. I've listened to some of his audio books while driving, and ran the risk of crashing due to the tears in my eyes obscuring my vision. I'm currently going through the audiobook of Theft By Finding, and honestly, this is the only piece of his that I'm finding kinda meh. It's not stories, but a collection of brief entries from his diaries. I'm about a third of the way through, so I'm hoping it gets better. But if you aren't familiar with his work, don't start with this one!
Karen
Oh! I have that somewhere but haven't read it yet. Or maybe I started it and put it aside. :/ Eep. David Sedaris is all anyone needs in life. ~ karen!
Heather T
Thanks for the book list, Karen...I do enjoy reading...
Victoria Andersson
I have a book tip for you! Ghost Farm by Novella Carpenter. A funny and inspirational book for all of us urban farmers.
Cherie
"A child's Christmas in Wales" is a must read for me each year, actually, I listen to the Dylan Thomas recording, too, and watch the movie. And "One hundred shining candles" is a must read at Christmas. Although I see that this list is an oldy and that there are probably some new ones you would recommend, there are some great suggestions, and I will try to get some of those I have not yet read. Goodness, Woman, when do you have time to read? Or sleep, for that matter? I'd be happy to accomplish one tenth of what you do.
Nancy Blue Moon
Good list Karen...both old and new!...I love books!
Donna @ Paisley & Perspective
I can't say I've ever read specific "Christmas" books, but after reading this list I'm starting. Tonight. After I stop at Chapters. This list is amazing. I've got Christmas reads for the next 10 years covered! Thank you everyone for sharing your favourites and a big thank you to Karen for starting the ball rolling.
Karen
You're welcome! More book posts coming up in the New Year. ;) ~ karen!
Tina W.
Cheddar Off Dead by Julia Buckley is a perfect cozy mystery/romance set at Christmas. Fun and easy to read.
Nancy Preston
My absolute favorite holiday book is "I Am One of You Forever", a collection of short stories by author Fred Chappell. A beautiful book that I read every winter.
TucsonPatty
I love these two authors and these books - "This Year It Will Be Different, and other stories" by Maeve Binchy, and "'Tis The Season" by Lorna Landvik.
I love Lanvik writing and a favorite is " Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons" which is about a book club and their books. There are 58 books mentioned in this book and it is great!
Alex
I have to read the new Anne Perry Christmas story every year. It usually has a sub theme of redemption, maybe some romance, and, if I’m lucky, some murder. All wrapped in Victorian Christmas paper.
ronda
I agree! HAVE to get the Christmas book every year!
Tanya J
Your Christmas romance novel obsession is only challenged by my Hallmark Channel cheesy romance Christmas movies obsession because my obsession comes with lots of holiday eye candy.
The scripts are terrible. The acting? Meh. But the sets! Small snow-covered main streets with their magically decorated shops, old farmhouses where old Uncle Joe still lives, luxurious country estates with fresh greenery wrapped up sprawling staircases. It's a never ending parade of everything that screams "charming Christmas."
The movies run 24/7 all month. Best. Thing. Ever.
Kelly ~ It took me 10 years to lose 10 pounds
This is such a great idea for a post!!!
I LOVE David Sedaris.
A good kids book is "Blue Toes"
Jennie Lee
I hope someone can answer this: was there a video made of part of "Holidays on Ice"? I'd swear I've seen and heard the part where he sings a Christmas carol in the style of Billie Holiday. I know a good writer puts images in your head, but a good imitation of Lady Day?
Carla
NPR always rebroadcasts David Sedaris performing his “Santaland Diary” story - it is a delight!
https://www.npr.org/2016/12/23/506475364/a-holiday-tradition-david-sedaris-reads-santaland-diaries
Catherine
Thanks for the link.
Gaeyl
I don't usually read novel however I recently picked up Commonwealth by Ann Patchett and A Light in the Window Jan Karon . I have fond memories of Little Women or anything by Louisa M Alcott and equally Agatha Christie . Enjoy Your to do list and no stress just do what you enjoy the most.
Catherine
I have a recommendation for a gay Christmas romance - "All Through the Night" by Suzanne Brockmann (excerpt at http://suzannebrockmann.com/books/troubleshooters/all-through-the-night/attn-excerpt/ ).
It's the 12th novel in the Troubleshooter series but it can definitely be read as a standalone. It's "the first mainstream romance novel with a hero and a hero ever to hit The New York Times hardcover fiction bestseller list, and in 2007, Suz donated all of her earnings from this book, in perpetuity, to MassEquality, to help win and preserve equal marriage rights in Massachusetts".
But, I can't believe you missed "Hogfather" by Terry Pratchett. An exchange between DEATH and Susan, his granddaughter:
HUMANS NEED FANTASY TO BE HUMAN. TO BE THE PLACE WHERE THE FALLING ANGEL MEETS THE RISING APE.
‘Tooth fairies? Hogfathers? Little -’
YES. AS PRACTICE. YOU HAVE TO START OUT LEARNING TO BELIEVE THE LITTLE LIES.
‘So we can believe the big ones?’
YES. JUSTICE. MERCY. DUTY. THAT SORT OF THING.
I also recommend the movie they made of Hogfather starring Ian Richardson and David Jason.
My favourite Stuart McLean story is "Dave Cooks the Turkey". It starts at 16:30 - https://soundcloud.com/cbc-radio-one/vinyl-cafe-dave-cooks-the
MaggieB
The Hogfather, book and film, absolutely!
Richard Whiteley
Anything by Terry Pratchett is a good read. He's reputed to be the best satirist since Jonathan Swift. Until J.K. Rowling came along he was responsible for 4% of the total income of the British publishing industry. Pity his humour and wit never caught on in North America. His early death was a great loss to fans worldwide. There are still many annual conferences devoted solely to him worldwide. How many authors can claim the same ?
Marilyn
For a little hit of long ago, there is the Miss Read series. She wrote charming books of old England and there are several about Christmas. Light and warm.
Musette
I stumbled upon the Miss Read books in my town's ancient library. I thought they would be very simple but actually found them to be more complex and 'adult' than expected. They are a pleasure to read.